The Best Hiking Shoes of 2025: Expert-Tested Picks for Every Trail

Choosing the best hiking shoes can make or break your outdoor adventures. With advancements in materials, cushioning, and sustainability, 2025’s lineup offers unparalleled comfort and performance. Whether you’re tackling rocky scrambles, muddy trails, or multi-day backpacking trips, we’ve analyzed top-rated options from leading experts to bring you this definitive guide.

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Top 7 Hiking Shoes of 2025

Curated based on durability, comfort, traction, and value

1. Best Overall: Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX 36

• Price: $170
• Weight: 1 lb. 11.5 oz.
• Key Features:
• Gore-Tex waterproofing for wet conditions.
• Agile design with Contragrip outsole for superior traction on rocks and mud.
• Updated wider toe box and precision lacing system.
• Ideal For: Hikers seeking a balance of agility, protection, and durability.
• Drawbacks: Narrow midfoot fit may not suit wide feet.

2. Best Cushioning: Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX 16

• Price: $180
• Weight: 1 lb. 8.8 oz.
• Key Features:
• Plush EVA midsole (30% recycled sugarcane) for shock absorption.
• Vibram Megagrip outsole and waterproof nubuck leather upper.
• Wide platform enhances stability on uneven terrain.
• Ideal For: Long-distance hikers or those with foot fatigue.
• Drawbacks: Bulkier design limits precision on technical trails.

3. Best Budget: Merrell Moab 3 37

• Price: 120(non−waterproof),120(non−waterproof),140 (waterproof)
• Weight: 2 lb. 1 oz.
• Key Features:
• Vibram TC5+ outsole for reliable grip.
• Kinetic Fit™ Advanced insoles and air-cushioned heel.
• Durable leather/mesh upper with recycled materials.
• Ideal For: Casual hikers and beginners seeking comfort without breaking the bank.
• Drawbacks: Heavy compared to trail runners.

4. Best for Technical Terrain: La Sportiva Spire GTX 34

• Price: $209
• Weight: 1 lb. 15 oz.
• Key Features:
• Gore-Tex Surround for breathable waterproofing.
• Vibram XS Trek outsole with Impact Brake System.
• Compression-molded midsole for backpacking support.
• Ideal For: Rugged trails and heavy packs.
• Drawbacks: Expensive and heavier than average.

5. Best Lightweight: Altra Lone Peak 9 37

• Price: $150
• Weight: 1 lb. 3 oz.
• Key Features:
• Zero-drop platform and foot-shaped toe box for natural stride.
• Water-resistant bootie for wet conditions.
• Max cushioning with StoneGuard rock plate.
• Ideal For: Thru-hikers and minimalist enthusiasts.
• Drawbacks: Less ankle support than traditional boots.

6. Best Sustainability: Hanwag Blueridge Low ES 5

• Price: £200 (~$250)
• Weight: 1.1 lb.
• Key Features:
• PFC-free waterproofing and recycled nylon upper.
• Resoleable Vibram Terragrip Hike Pro outsole.
• European-made with eco-conscious materials.
• Ideal For: Eco-conscious hikers prioritizing durability.
• Drawbacks: Stiff midsole requires break-in time.

7. Best for Wide Feet: Oboz Katabatic Low B-Dry 8

• Price: $145
• Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz.
• Key Features:
  
• Gender-specific lasts for snug heel and spacious toe box.
• B-Dry waterproofing and TPU overlays for durability.
• Carbon rubber outsole grips wet rocks and mud.
• Ideal For: Hikers with wide feet or needing all-weather versatility.
• Drawbacks: Less rugged than heavy-duty options.

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Key Features to Consider

1. Waterproofing: Gore-Tex and similar membranes (e.g., B-Dry) excel in wet conditions but reduce breathability 28.
2. Traction: Vibram Megagrip or Contragrip outsoles with 4–5 mm lugs handle mud and rocks best 46.
3. Cushioning: Plush midsoles (e.g., Hoka’s EVA) reduce fatigue on long hikes but may lack ground feel 16.
4. Fit: Look for roomy toe boxes (Altra) or snug heel cups (La Sportiva) based on foot shape 78.
5. Sustainability: Brands like Hanwag and Hoka use recycled materials and resoleable designs 56.

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Hiking Shoes vs. Boots: Which is Right for You?

• Shoes: Lightweight (14–24 oz.) and agile for fast hikes on established trails 57.
• Boots: Better ankle support for heavy packs or technical terrain but heavier (24+ oz.) 5.

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FAQ

Q: Are hiking shoes good for backpacking?
A: Yes! Lightweight models like the La Sportiva Spire GTX handle 25+ lb. packs, while trail runners (e.g., Altra Lone Peak) suit ultralight setups 37.

Q: How long do hiking shoes last?
A: 500–1,000 miles. Leather options (Merrell Moab) outlast synthetic uppers 68.

Q: Can I use hiking shoes for running?
A: Hybrids like the Merrell Moab Speed 2 blend hiking stability with trail-running agility 6.

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Final Thoughts

The best hiking shoes of 2025 cater to diverse needs, from the budget-friendly Merrell Moab 3 to the rugged La Sportiva Spire GTX. Prioritize waterproofing for rainy climates, cushioning for long days, and sustainability for eco-friendly adventures.